Arsenal striker has embarked on a new chapter in his career by joining a lesser-known Chinese club after an early termination of his contract with an Armenian team.
The former Arsenal striker has inked a deal with Qingdao Red Lions, competing in China’s second division, extending his journeyman trajectory. Sanogo recently represented Urartu, where he netted seven goals in 16 matches before the club in Armenia terminated his contract prematurely in January, concluding a year-long stint.
Having commenced his professional journey with French outfit Auxerre, Sanogo made a high-profile move to Arsenal in 2013. Despite spending four years with the Gunners, his contributions were limited, registering only one goal in 20 appearances and enduring loan spells with Crystal Palace, Ajax, and Charlton. Nonetheless, he secured silverware with Arsenal under Arsene Wenger, clinching the FA Cup and Community Shield in 2014.
Following his departure from Arsenal, Sanogo spent three seasons with Toulouse before a brief stint with Huddersfield in English football. His tenure with Urartu yielded success in the form of the Armenian Cup triumph, although his tenure was cut short.
After a brief spell as a free agent, Sanogo has now opted for Qingdao Red Lions, situated on the Chinese coast and competing in China League One, the tier below the Chinese Super League.
The announcement of Sanogo’s move on Reddit elicited nostalgic responses from Arsenal fans, underscoring his cult status among the faithful. One supporter exclaimed, “The man. The myth. The legend,” while another fondly recalled his standout performances. Anticipating Sanogo’s impact in the Chinese second tier, one commenter reminisced about his virtual prowess on Football Manager, hailing him as a “FM12 legend.”
Sanogo’s transition to Qingdao Red Lions marks a stark contrast to his earlier promise. In 2013, Arsenal manager Wenger expressed optimism about Sanogo’s potential, citing his impressive displays for Auxerre and the French Under-20 team. However, Sanogo’s tenure at Arsenal failed to fulfill expectations, with minimal involvement in Premier League matches over four years. Nonetheless, he left a memorable mark with crucial goals, including one against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
His return to English football with Huddersfield in 2021 yielded disappointing results, failing to find the net in nine appearances. Despite his goal drought, Huddersfield managed to stave off relegation from the Championship before parting ways with him.
